Here are 10 of the most important ancient cities in India
The concept of a “metropolitan city” is a relatively modern one. Large, important ancient cities have existed in India for millennia.
- Mohenjo-daro: One of the largest cities of the Indus Valley Civilization, Mohenjo-daro flourished around 3000 BCE. It is famous for its well-planned layout, advanced drainage system, and baked brick houses.
- Harappa: Another major Indus Valley Civilization city, Harappa was located near the Ravi River in what is now Pakistan. Like Mohenjo-daro, it had a well-planned layout and impressive architecture.
- Pataliputra: The capital of the Maurya Empire, Pataliputra was a major center of trade and learning. It is believed to have been a large and prosperous city, with a population of over 100,000 people.
- Taxila: A major center of learning in ancient India, Taxila was a crossroads for trade between India, Central Asia, and West Asia. It is famous for its universities, which attracted students from all over the world.
- Kanchipuram: A center of Hindu culture and learning for centuries, Kanchipuram is also known for its silk sarees. The city was once the capital of the Pallava dynasty.
- Varanasi: One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Varanasi is a holy city for Hindus. It is located on the banks of the Ganges River, and is a major pilgrimage destination.
- Madurai: A center of Tamil culture and learning, Madurai is famous for its Meenakshi Temple, one of the most important Hindu temples in South India.
- Ujjain: An ancient city on the banks of the Shipra River, Ujjain was once a major center of trade and learning. It is also one of the seven sacred ancient cities of Hinduism.
- Mathura: A holy city for Hindus and Buddhists, Mathura is believed to be the birthplace of Krishna. The city is also famous for its Jain temples.
- Dwarka: A holy city for Hindus, Dwarka is believed to be the underwater kingdom of Krishna. The city is located on the coast of Gujarat, and is a major pilgrimage destination.
These are just a few of the many important ancient cities in India. Each city has its own unique history and culture, and they all played a role in shaping the development of India.
